Many people hesitate to delegate because they believe it takes more time and effort than simply doing the task themselves. However, as Stephen R. Covey emphasizes in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, effective delegation is one of the most powerful high-leverage activities available. When done correctly, it increases productivity exponentially while fostering trust and growth in those around us.
The Power of Effective Delegation
Covey contrasts two types of delegation: Gofer Delegation and Stewardship Delegation.
Gofer Delegation is task-based. It operates on a “go for this, do that” model, requiring constant supervision and control. While this approach ensures tasks are completed in a specific way, it severely limits scalability. As Covey points out, “One-on-one supervision of methods…how many people is it possible to supervise or manage when you have to be involved in every move they make?”
Stewardship Delegation, on the other hand, is results-based. It provides individuals with autonomy and responsibility while ensuring clarity in expectations. Covey describes five key elements of effective stewardship delegation:
- Desired Results – Focus on what needs to be achieved, not how it should be done.
- Guidelines – Set clear parameters without dictating every method.
- Resources – Ensure the individual has access to the tools, training, and support they need.
- Accountability – Define how performance will be evaluated and when check-ins will occur.
- Consequences – Outline rewards for success and the implications of unmet expectations.
By shifting from method-based supervision to outcome-based trust, leaders empower individuals to think critically and take ownership of their work.
Trust: The Key to Effective Delegation
“Trust is the highest form of human motivation,” Covey writes. When leaders trust their teams, it brings out the best in people. However, this doesn’t mean delegation is a hands-off approach. True trust requires patience, training, and a commitment to development. Without proper preparation, delegation can lead to frustration for both parties. But when done right, it fosters independence and innovation.
Covey explains that stewardship delegation, when implemented correctly, benefits everyone involved. “The steward becomes his own boss, governed by a conscience that contains the commitment to agreed-upon desired results.” This approach not only increases efficiency but also enhances individual and team growth.
Effectiveness Over Efficiency
One of Covey’s most profound lessons is that effectiveness should always take precedence over efficiency. While it may seem faster to complete a task yourself, the long-term impact of delegation far outweighs the short-term time investment. Leaders who delegate effectively multiply their efforts, enabling their teams to accomplish far more than any single individual could alone.
Reflection Questions:
- Do you find yourself avoiding delegation because it feels easier to do things yourself? How might this be limiting your productivity?
- Have you ever experienced a situation where trust-based delegation led to better results than micromanagement? What made the difference?
- Which of the five elements of stewardship delegation do you struggle with the most—defining desired results, setting guidelines, providing resources, accountability, or consequences?
- How can you shift from a Gofer Delegation mindset to a Stewardship Delegation approach in your personal or professional life?
By embracing the principles of stewardship delegation, we can build trust, develop stronger teams, and achieve far greater results than we ever could alone. What step will you take this week to delegate more effectively? Join us on March 31 as we cover pages 201-212 and complete our discussion on Habit 3: Put First Things First.
